First played ice hockey in Reutov but developed his skills with Khimik Voskresensk.
He was at one time considered to be one of the most talented goaltenders in Soviet ice hockey and made his league debut at the age of 17.
The Soviets were looking hard at successors to Vladislav Tretiak who was on his way to retire. Even though he played in the European and World Junior Championships, he never managed to earn a spot on the senior national team.
It wasn’t until he was a 30-year old veteran that he got to play in the senior World Championships. Had a long playing career with more than 600 games to his credit.
Retired in 2002.
PH